I didn't expect you

Two years ago today, I clicked on the "publish now" button here at Drew’s Marketing Minute for the first time. I wasn’t sure what to expect.

I figured I’d write and sometimes, someone would read. Maybe a comment or two. It was a grand experiment and I was flying without a net.

Now, 760 posts later — boy, did I write. With 3,200+ subscribers, I guess you did some reading and with a whopping 5,526 comments as I write this — man, did you talk back!

I don’t really know how to say this without sounding a little goofy — but I am humbled by your presence here. I know how busy you are. I know how many excellent marketing blogs there are. And still you come. I didn’t expect you.

And thank goodness you showed up! Do you realize what we’ve done together in these two years? We’ve sparked ideas, we’ve raised issues, we critiqued, applauded and even gotten a little weepy once or twice.

We created the resource — New Blogger’s Toolbox and loaded it with great blogs and teachers for the novice blogger.

Together, we launched Age of Conversation and raised about $14,000 at last count for Variety, the Children’s Charity. And as crazy as we are…we’re about to do it again!

We created Blogger’s Social and literally brought the world to NYC for a weekend of laughter, hugging and some crazy hats.

But above all, we connected. For me anyway, this has gone way beyond just writing about marketing and branding. Just like we preach — by just being here and being yourselves, sharing with gusto, and creating a welcoming place for others to join us — together, we created a community.

I’ve talked to many of you on the phone or via e-mail. I’ve met you for coffee, for a beer, for dinner or for a laugh. We’ve skyped, ooVoo’d, texted and traded guest posts.

And in some cases, we’ve shared a weekend or a moment. And they’ve all been remarkable. From this grand experiment, I’ve gained so much. But what I value the most is you.

Thank you for sharing this space with me for the past two years. I really didn’t expect you. But man, am I glad you showed up!

Here’s a little and very incomplete pictorial view of some of the people this blog has brought into my life. I’m grateful beyond measure.

Just like the marketing lesson you’re probably sick of hearing me preach — in the end, it’s about the relationship. Again, thank you so much for being a part of this blog. I didn’t expect you. But I love that you’re here!

McLellan Marketing Group is an advertising | marketing agency based in Des Moines, IA, and serving clients all over the US.
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Drew,
Wow! Congratulations for this achievement. I though you had been blogging for ten years! Your blog and the great content, projects and ideas it carries have always been insightful to me. Above that, knowing you -meeting you in real life I should say- is both an honor and a blessing.

I have enjoyed the great information and sharing of comments and content in this world you’ve created. You’ve helped provide many an insightful tidbit for the messages I send. Looking forward to the next two years and more!

As usual, I’m late to the party … but I just had to add my Happy Bloggiversary wishes. (But did you have to publish *that* photo of us? LOL) Thanks for providing so much wonderful content here. I’ve learned a lot from you, my friend.

I know I’m a little late to the party, but congratulations Drew! It seems like it’s been so much longer than two years and yet…it’s gone so fast! Thanks for sharing your life and your blog with me! I’m so glad to have you in my world!